For weeks, Tampa Bay Buccaneers fans have been waiting for any news on running back Bucky Irving, who went down with an injury during the team’s Week 4 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. The offense has felt his absence, relying on Rachaad White and Sean Tucker to fill the void. After a long silence, head coach Todd Bowles finally delivered the update everyone was hoping for.
What Is the Latest on Bucky Irving’s Injury Status?
Earlier in the week, Bowles told reporters there was still no timeline for Irving or wide receiver Chris Godwin. That vague outlook left many concerned about Irving’s return.
However, the tone shifted dramatically on Wednesday, Nov. 12. During a media session, Bowles provided an unexpected and promising announcement regarding the sophomore running back. He said the following:
“Yeah it was a walkthrough. He was limited today and we’ll see what he does tomorrow and Friday, but it’s good to have him back out there and its the first step to him trying to work his way back.”
Bucs coach Todd Bowles said it was good to have Bucky Irving back at practice. He was limited and said they have to see what he can do this week. pic.twitter.com/WmyYdkJzNN
— Rick Stroud (@NFLSTROUD) November 12, 2025
This development marks a significant step for Irving and the Buccaneers, who are aiming to make a late-season push. Despite Irving’s return to practice in a limited capacity, Bowles noted that he will not wear shoulder pads this week. That timeline suggests Irving will likely miss the Week 11 game against the Buffalo Bills. However, it opens the door for a potential return in a crucial Week 12 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday Night Football.
With Irving out for at least one more game, the Buccaneers will continue to lean on White and Tucker. According to PFSN’s Running Back Impact metrics, White ranks 21st in the league. So far, White has rushed for 325 yards and four touchdowns on 87 attempts and added 26 receptions for 133 yards in the passing game.
Meanwhile, Tucker, a third-year player out of Syracuse, has accumulated 129 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 32 carries. As a receiver, he has five receptions for a total of negative four yards.
Whenever Irving does return to the field, he has the potential to be an instant game-changer for a Tampa Bay offense that currently ranks 21st in PFSN’s Offensive Impact metrics. In just four games, Irving rushed 71 times for 237 yards and caught 19 passes for 193 yards and two touchdowns, showing the dynamic ability the team has been missing.